Left Behind: When a Driver Doesn’t Stick Around
It’s a nightmare scenario: You’re cruising along, thinking about your day, when—bam! You’re hit. Maybe it’s a sideswipe. Maybe it’s a full-on crash. And before you can blink, they’re gone. Just like that, the other driver speeds away, leaving you alone with the damage, the fear, and the questions. In California, this isn’t just bad behavior; it’s a criminal act.
The law is clear: hit-and-run drivers face steep penalties under California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§20001 and 20002. For accidents involving injury or death, they’re dealing with felony charges. For property damage alone? Misdemeanor. But for victims, the trauma is the same. And, so are the challenges of putting life back together.
A hit-and-run isn’t just about the crash; it’s about a driver who chose to run instead of facing the consequences. Here’s how California law handles those who flee—and what you can do when they leave you behind.
CVC §20001: The Law on Injury and Hit-and-Run
Let’s talk numbers. Under CVC §20001, drivers involved in an accident causing injury or death must stop, identify themselves, and help those in need. It’s the law. Failing to do so? That’s a felony, plain and simple. And the penalties? They’re steep.
If someone gets hurt and the driver bails, they’re looking at:
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
- Up to a year in county jail for less severe injuries.
- Up to four years in state prison if serious injuries or fatalities are involved.
Think about that for a moment. California doesn’t take hit-and-runs lightly—especially when someone’s safety is on the line. But knowing the law isn’t enough if you’re the one left injured. A California car accident attorney can walk you through the options, help gather evidence, and set you on the path to recovery. It’s not just about getting medical help; it’s about getting justice.
CVC §20002: Property Damage Still Means You Stop
Alright, so maybe no one was hurt. Maybe it was just a fender bender. You’d think that makes things easier, right? Not so fast. Under CVC §20002, if there’s property damage, even the smallest dent, drivers are required to stop and exchange information. And if the property owner isn’t there—say it’s a parked car or a fence—they need to leave a visible note with their contact info.
A hit-and-run, even for property damage, is a criminal act. And yes, there are penalties:
- Fines up to $1,000.
- Jail time up to six months in county jail.
These might not sound as intense as the penalties under CVC §20001, but they’re still life-changing. A conviction can mean higher insurance rates, a suspended license, and a criminal record. For victims, it’s about more than fines. It’s about holding someone accountable for the damage they left behind. With the right car accident claim lawyer, you don’t have to go through it alone.
The Catch: When the Driver Isn’t Found
Here’s the kicker. In hit-and-run cases, identifying the fleeing driver is the first big hurdle. What do you do if they’re gone without a trace? This is where things get tough. But tough doesn’t mean impossible.
If the driver is unknown, you’re not out of options. For starters, there’s uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. California requires insurers to offer this coverage, which steps in when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured. It won’t always cover everything, but it’s a safety net. And when insurance companies try to lowball you? That’s when a California car accident attorney steps in to negotiate, making sure you get the best possible outcome.
Filing a UM claim means you’ll need to act quickly. Insurers don’t always make it easy, and having the right evidence can make or break your case. Photos, videos, witness statements—get everything you can. And remember, having an attorney isn’t just helpful; it’s crucial.
Steps You Should Take Right Away
No one plans for a hit-and-run. But if you’re a victim, there are steps to protect your rights:
- Document the Scene: Snap photos of the damage, the surroundings, anything that could help prove what happened. A picture of the fleeing car, if possible, can be invaluable.
- Find Witnesses: Did anyone else see the crash? Nearby drivers, pedestrians, or even business employees may have caught important details. Get their contact information.
- Report the Accident: File a police report as soon as possible. The police can often access surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras. If there’s a lead, they’ll help you find it.
- Talk to a Lawyer: A best car accident lawyer Los Angeles knows how to navigate hit-and-run cases. They can collect police reports, track down witnesses, and bring in experts if necessary. You want someone on your side who knows how to work every angle.
Being proactive might feel overwhelming after an accident, but every step matters. Gathering this evidence isn’t just about proving what happened; it’s about proving that the other driver fled, which is crucial for insurance claims.
How a Hit-and-Run Affects Personal Injury Claims
When you’re injured, a hit-and-run makes things exponentially harder. Why? Because finding the responsible party is half the battle. But once that driver is identified, your case gains traction. California law is strict, and that means serious consequences for drivers who flee. With evidence on your side, proving negligence becomes much simpler.
But what if the driver isn’t found? This is where a car accident claim lawyer can make a big difference. They’ll explore every possible route for compensation, including uninsured motorist claims. Without a lawyer, you’re at the mercy of insurance companies. With one? You’ve got an advocate who knows how to fight.
A hit-and-run complicates things, but it doesn’t mean you’re without options. Knowing the right steps to take after the fact can make all the difference.
UM Coverage: A Lifeline When the Driver Can’t Be Found
Filing an uninsured motorist claim isn’t always straightforward. If the driver’s never identified, UM coverage steps in to cover expenses. Think of it as a backup plan—one that’s essential when you’re dealing with a hit-and-run. But, insurance companies don’t like paying out UM claims, and they may try to minimize your settlement.
To file a UM claim successfully:
- Notify Your Insurer Immediately: Most policies require timely reporting of accidents, especially hit-and-runs.
- Gather All Available Evidence: Photos, videos, witness statements, medical records—every bit counts.
- Work with an Attorney: Even with UM coverage, navigating this process is challenging. A California car accident attorney can negotiate on your behalf, making sure you don’t end up with less than you deserve.
UM coverage can be a lifeline, but only if you use it right. Don’t assume you’re getting the best deal without someone to fight for you.
Why You Need an Attorney After a Hit-and-Run
Facing a hit-and-run alone is like playing a game with no rulebook. You don’t know what the next move is, and one wrong turn can cost you. That’s where a California car accident attorney comes in. They know the law, the process, and the best strategies to get results.
An attorney’s job goes beyond paperwork. They’re there to handle the tough negotiations with insurance companies, proving the full extent of your losses, and working to maximize your payout. They’ll secure medical records, interview witnesses, and track down footage or records that support your case. If the driver is found, they’ll handle the lawsuit. If not, they’ll navigate the UM claim. It’s all about making sure you’re taken care of, legally and financially.
Every step of the way, an attorney fights for your rights—so you don’t have to.
Taking Control: Your Next Move After a Hit-and-Run
A hit-and-run leaves victims feeling like control was taken from them. But you have options. California’s laws, while strict, are designed to protect you. By working with an experienced attorney, you gain a partner who knows the system, who can help you rebuild.
Don’t let a fleeing driver have the last word. Call California Attorney Group at (310) 278-6666. We’ll stand by your side, gather the evidence, and fight to get you what you’re owed. You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to make sure your rights are protected, your voice is heard, and your future is secure.
